Trevor Sorbie, Iconic Hairstylist Behind the Famous ‘Wedge’ Cut, Passes Away at 75

Trevor Sorbie, the celebrated hairstylist known for crafting the iconic “wedge” hairstyle popularized by figure skater Dorothy Hamill, has passed away at the age of 75 at his home in Fareham, England. His death, confirmed by Bree Davie, the CEO of his company, comes shortly after Mr. Sorbie revealed that he was battling bowel cancer, which had metastasized to his liver.Mr. Sorbie gained prominence in the 1970s when Hamill showcased the wedge cut during her performance at the 1976 Olympics. This distinctive style featured short hair at the back and longer layers around the face, a visual statement that resonated with audiences and was subsequently embraced by mainstream media, even receiving a two-page feature in Vogue magazine."The wedge captured the spirit of the time and was flaunted in nightclubs around the world," Mr. Sorbie remarked on his salon's website, reflecting on the widespread popularity of his creation. Following this breakthrough in hairstyling, Mr. Sorbie realized the influence of creativity in shaping fashion trends, declaring, "I now understood the power of invention."Beyond the wedge, Sorbie's innovative scrunch drying technique gained traction in the 1980s, further solidifying his reputation in the beauty industry. Throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Sorbie styled the hair of various celebrities, including Dame Helen Mirren and members of the Beach Boys, earning a dedicated following and numerous accolades.In recognition of his contributions to hairdressing, Queen Elizabeth II honored Mr. Sorbie, affirming his status as a pivotal figure in British fashion and hairstyling. His work not only influenced contemporary beauty standards but also birthed a movement that showcased hairstyles as a form of cultural expression, reminding us of the connection between personal style and societal trends.